Sodium Laureth Sulfate | Solubility of Things

Identification

Molecular formula

C₁₄H₂₉NaO₅S

CAS number

9004-82-4

IUPAC name

sodium;2-(2-dodecoxyethoxy)ethyl sulfate

State

At room temperature, Sodium Laureth Sulfate is generally found as a liquid, which can range from clear to a light yellow hue.

Melting point (Celsius)

-2.00

Melting point (Kelvin)

271.00

Boiling point (Celsius)

100.00

Boiling point (Kelvin)

373.00

General information

Molecular weight

288.38g/mol

Molar mass

288.3760g/mol

Density

1.0100g/cm³

Appearence

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) typically appears as a clear or slightly yellow liquid. Its consistency can vary from watery to thick, depending on the concentration and formulation. It usually produces a large amount of foam, particularly in aqueous solutions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility Characteristics of Sodium 2-(2-Dodecoxyethoxy)ethyl Sulfate

Sodium 2-(2-dodecoxyethoxy)ethyl sulfate, often referred to as a surfactant due to its unique chemical structure, exhibits interesting solubility properties that can influence its applications in various fields.

General Solubility Trends

This compound belongs to a class of amphiphilic molecules, which means it contains both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) parts. The solubility of sodium 2-(2-dodecoxyethoxy)ethyl sulfate can be summarized as follows:

Water Solubility: Due to the presence of the sulfate group, this compound is expected to have good solubility in water, allowing it to disperse and function effectively in aqueous environments.
Solubility in Organic Solvents: The long dodecoxy chain increases the hydrophobic character, making it less soluble in non-polar organic solvents.
Temperature Effects: Like many surfactants, its solubility may increase at elevated temperatures, making it versatile for various thermal applications.

Practical Implications

The solubility profile of sodium 2-(2-dodecoxyethoxy)ethyl sulfate can significantly affect its performance in formulations. For example:

Emulsification: Excellent solubility in water is beneficial for creating stable emulsions in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.
Detergency: Its surfactant properties enable it to reduce surface tension, enhancing wetting and cleaning capabilities.

Understanding the solubility of this compound is essential for optimizing its use in various applications. As noted in chemical literature, "the blend of hydrophilic and hydrophobic attributes in surfactants makes them invaluable for numerous industrial processes."

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Sodium; 2-(2-Dodecoxyethoxy)ethyl Sulfate

Sodium; 2-(2-dodecoxyethoxy)ethyl sulfate, commonly referred to as a type of sodium sulfate, is a fascinating and versatile compound that is widely used in various applications. Below are some interesting aspects of this chemical:

Surfactant Properties: This compound is primarily recognized for its ability to act as a surfactant, which means it helps reduce the surface tension of liquids. This property makes it valuable in industries such as cosmetics and personal care products, where it functions as an emulsifying agent.
Biodegradability: One significant advantage of using sodium; 2-(2-dodecoxyethoxy)ethyl sulfate is its biodegradability. Many modern formulations prioritize environmentally friendly ingredients, and this compound meets that requirement by breaking down naturally in the environment.
Foaming Agent: In addition to its surfactant capacity, this compound is often utilized as a foaming agent. This characteristic is vital for enhancing the sensory experience in products like shampoos, soaps, and cleaning agents.
Use in Laboratory Research: Sodium; 2-(2-dodecoxyethoxy)ethyl sulfate is frequently employed in analytical chemistry. Scientists use it in experiments requiring precise control over surface properties—an essential factor in many research and development projects.
Restorative Applications: Due to its ability to target specific skin conditions, this compound is also involved in developing restorative personal care products. It is particularly effective for products aimed at improving skin hydration and texture.

As a chemical substance, sodium; 2-(2-dodecoxyethoxy)ethyl sulfate exemplifies the delicate balance of efficacy and safety—a principle that is vital for innovative chemical applications. As researchers continue to explore its potential, this compound stands at the forefront of sustainable chemistry and formulation science.